PEER OBSERVATION

BEST PRACTICES

1. Create a favorable environment.

Choose a location that is comfortable, private and free from interruptions.

2. Choose the right time.

Schedule the conference soon after the observation – perhaps schedule at the same time.

3. Start the conversation.

Begin with open-ended questions.

4. Use effective communication skills.

Pause, paraphrase, check for understanding and use open body language.

5. Be positive and build on strengths.

Start with what went well and build on strengths, but be sure to include area(s) to grow.

6. Describe behavior.

Focus on the behavior and share objective observations without evaluating.

7. Be specific and accurate.

Describe specific behaviors accurately.

8. Don’t compare.

Concentrate on instructional goals, not teaching style.

9. Focus on the future.

Provide suggestions for future improvement – but no more than three.

10. Maintain confidentiality.

What happens in the classroom stays in the classroom.

Adpated from Criticism in not a four-letter word: Best practices for constructive feedback in peer review of teachingpresented by Wlliam H. Weare and Jaena Alabi at LOEX May 2012